Molecular Biology

Molecular Biology is the investigation at the molecular level of all aspects of cells and tissues from simple systems in bacteria to more complex systems in plants and mammals. Molecular Biology has been responsible for spectacular successes in the treatment of disease caused either by bacteria and viruses on the one hand, or inborn genetic errors on the other.

Why Aberdeen?

• Excellent staff and teaching facilities
• Innovative and flexible teaching allowing the student to follow special interests
• Opportunities for gaining (paid) experience in industry
• An integrated programme covering Biochemistry, Genetics, Microbiology and Immunology
• Training provided in both specialist and employment-related skills

Programmes

Study Abroad

Study abroad information

The opportunity to take Enhanced Study options as part of your degree and participate in co-curricular activities. See www.abdn.ac.uk/thedifference for more information.

First Year

Students take courses in Chemistry and Biology plus additional courses selected from the wide range available from science and other areas.

Second Year

In second year students take a selection of courses that offer a training in fundamental aspects of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology (see entries for these disciplines). The curriculum includes two courses devoted to development of Foundation and Research Skills in the Life Sciences.

Third Year

The third year courses advance students’ understanding of the molecular biology of the cell. In addition, students take courses in Genetics and Biochemistry.

Fourth Year (Honours)

The Honours year aims to extend and explore in depth specific aspects of Molecular Biology. All students begin their Honours year by attending a three-day reading party. An important feature of the Honours course is a ten-week research project, carried out in research laboratories within the School of Medical Sciences, other schools, or in local research institutes.

This project provides the opportunity to carry out original research, using state-of-the-art technology in busy laboratories and alongside postgraduate and postdoctoral staff. The fourth year curriculum is divided into a core course and two options courses in the first semester, with the research project and research tutorials in the second semester.

Variations

For the degree with Industrial Placement the year in industry is taken between third and fourth year, in an appropriate industrial laboratory.

Teaching and Assessment

In the early years, teaching involves attendance at lectures, practicals and tutorials. In the later years a rather greater proportion of students’ time is taken up in private study involving writing essays and reports and also in laboratory or library work relating to specific projects and student symposia.

Careers

A wide variety of career opportunities are available to molecular biologists. Many of our graduates follow their undergraduate degree with PhD research in a range of research laboratories, both in the UK and overseas. Others move directly into positions in hospital research, diagnostic laboratories and research institutes (supported by the research councils and other agencies). Other major employers of Molecular Biology graduates include the pharmaceutical, food, fermentation and related biotechnology industries.

Finding your direction

There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success.  The Careers Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us – from first to final year – and beyond.

• More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen.
• More information on the Careers Service.
• More information on careers prospects and employability with a degree in Molecular Biology.

Entrance Requirements

SQA Highers - BBBB*
A Levels - BBB*
IB - 30 points, 5 at HL*
ILC - BBBB*
*Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/Science subjects.

 Advanced Entry - Advanced Highers ABB, A Levels ABB, or IB 34 points (6 at HL), including Biology and Chemistry, one of which must be at A-grade.

For further details of entrance requirements click here

Please click on the links below to find out more information on funding in your area.

• Scotland and EU (Excluding England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• Rest of UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• International
• Scholarships

Related Links

• Scholarships
• Entrance Scholarships
• Funding Database
• England Wales and Northern Ireland Finance Guide